U.S. patent application number 11/255574 was filed with the patent office on 2007-05-24 for novelty item.
Invention is credited to Oliver C. Mou.
Application Number | 20070113435 11/255574 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 38052062 |
Filed Date | 2007-05-24 |
United States Patent
Application |
20070113435 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Mou; Oliver C. |
May 24, 2007 |
Novelty item
Abstract
A novelty item has a base and a display extending upwardly from
the base. The display comprises at least a first segment and at
least a second segment each having an outer cylindrical wall and an
inner cylindrical wall, the inner and outer walls separated from
one another thereby defining a first interior space, and the inner
cylindrical wall defining a second interior space. A divider is
located between the first and second segments, the divider
supporting the second segment over the first segment in generally
vertical alignment, the display having a generally open top leading
to an interior of the display defined by the second interior space
of said first and second segment. The novelty item may have the
appearance of a gaming machine "top" light and may be also be
configured for utilitarian use, such as a writing utensil holder or
mug.
Inventors: |
Mou; Oliver C.; (Las Vegas,
NV) |
Correspondence
Address: |
WEIDE & MILLER, LTD.
7251 W. LAKE MEAD BLVD.
SUITE 530
LAS VEGAS
NV
89128
US
|
Family ID: |
38052062 |
Appl. No.: |
11/255574 |
Filed: |
October 21, 2005 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
40/442 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G09F 13/00 20130101;
Y10S 215/90 20130101; Y10S 362/80 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
040/442 |
International
Class: |
G09F 13/00 20060101
G09F013/00 |
Claims
1. A tower light novelty item comprising: a base; and a display
extending upwardly from said base, said display comprising at least
a first segment and at least a second segment, said first and
second segments each having an outer cylindrical wall and an inner
cylindrical wall, said inner and outer walls separated from one
another thereby defining a first interior space, and said inner
cylindrical wall defining a second interior space therein, a
divider located between said first and second segments, said
divider supporting said second segment over said first segment in
generally vertical alignment, said display having a generally open
top leading to an interior of said display, said interior of said
display defined by said second interior space of said first and
second segment.
2. The tower light novelty item in accordance with claim 1 wherein
said divider is ring-shaped and comprises a wall having a stop
extending inwardly therefrom, said stop positioned between a top
and a bottom of said wall.
3. The tower light novelty item in accordance with claim 2 wherein
said wall of said divider extends over a portion of said first and
second segments.
4. The tower light novelty item in accordance with claim 1
including an insert located in said first interior space of the
first interior space of at least one of said first and second
segments.
5. The tower light novelty item in accordance with claim 1 wherein
said outer wall of said first and second segments is generally
transparent.
6. The tower light novelty item in accordance with claim 1
including a cap located at a top of said display, said cap being
ring-shaped and defining said open top of said display.
7. The tower light novelty item in accordance with claim 1 wherein
said inner wall of said first and second segments is colored.
8. The tower light novelty item in accordance with claim 1
including at least one illumination means.
9. The tower light novelty item in accordance with claim 8 wherein
said illumination means comprises at least one light ring
positioned at a top or bottom end of at least one of said first and
second segments.
10. The tower light novelty item in accordance with claim 1
including at least one light aligned with said first interior space
of at least one of said first and second segments.
11. The tower light novelty item in accordance with claim 1 wherein
at least one light is associated with said base.
12. The tower light novelty item in accordance with claim 1 wherein
said base bears a logo.
13. The tower light novelty item in accordance with claim 1 wherein
said display comprises a first segment, a second segment and a
third segment, a first divider is positioned between said first and
second segments and a second divider is positioned between said
second and third segments.
14. The tower light novelty item in accordance with claim 1 wherein
a bottom portion of said first segment is connected to said
base.
15. A tower light novelty item comprising: a base, a first display
segment having a bottom and a top, said bottom of said display
segment connected to said base; a first divider located at said top
of said first display segment; a second display segment having a
bottom and a top, said bottom of said second display segment
connected to said first divider; said first and second display
segments having an annular configuration and defining an open
interior area; at least one illumination device associated with
said novelty item and configured to illuminate at least one of said
first and second display segments; and at least one illumination
device associated with said base.
16. The tower light novelty item in accordance with claim 15
further including a second divider located at said top of said
second display segment and a third display segment having a bottom
and a top, said bottom of said third display segment connected to
said second divider.
17. The tower light novelty item in accordance with claim 15
wherein at least one of said first and second display segments
displays text of graphic information.
18. The tower light novelty item in accordance with claim 15
wherein a first illumination device comprising a ring having at
least one light mounted thereto is located at said bottom of said
first display segment and a second illumination device comprising a
ring having at least one light mounted thereto is located at said
bottom of said second display segment.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to novelty items, and
particularly to a gaming-related novelty item.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Novelty items are extremely popular. Novelty items are
frequently sold as souvenirs to tourists, both for themselves and
for distribution as gifts. Wide varieties of novelty items are
known, and they frequently are "themed" to have particular
applicability to the destination of the tourist.
[0003] Gaming is now a very popular activity, and Las Vegas is a
particularly desirable gaming destination. Visitors to Las Vegas
commonly seek souvenirs of their trip. Miniature slot machines and
shirts, hats and other items bearing images or text regarding Las
Vegas or gaming activities are very popular.
[0004] A need exists for other unique and exciting novelty goods,
especially those which are associated with gaming activities and
which may have some beneficial use.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0005] The present invention is a novelty item. In one embodiment,
the novelty item bears resemblance to a feature or element of the
gaming environment. In a preferred embodiment, the novelty item
resembles a gaming machine "top", "candle" or "tower light." In
addition, the novelty item of the invention is preferably
configured for utilitarian function, such as by being configured
for use as a container.
[0006] In one embodiment of the invention, the novelty item has a
base and a display extending upwardly from the base. The display
comprises at least a first segment and at least a second segment. A
divider is located between the first and second segments, the
divider supporting the second segment over the first segment in
generally vertical alignment. Preferably, the display has a
generally open top leading to an interior of the display.
[0007] In one embodiment, the segments of the display have varying
appearances. In one embodiment, the segments appear in one or more
different colors.
[0008] In one embodiment, each segment has an outer cylindrical
wall and an inner cylindrical wall, the inner and outer walls
separated from one another thereby defining a first interior space,
and the inner cylindrical wall defining a second interior space.
The outer wall of each segment may be generally transparent, while
the inner wall may be colored (such as white, red, blue or the
like).
[0009] The segments may bear text, images, or other information.
For example, the segments may bear text regarding the source of the
novelty item, such as "Las Vegas, Nevada." In the embodiment where
the segments are constructed of two separate walls, inserts bearing
text, images or the like may be positioned in the interior space
between the walls of the segments.
[0010] The "tower light" novelty item may have a variety of
configurations. For example, the novelty item may be constructed of
more than two segments, such as three or more segments. Preferably,
pairs of the segments of the novelty item are separated by a
divider. In one embodiment, a cap may be located at the top of the
novelty item. The cap may comprise, for example, a ring located at
the top of the top-most segment.
[0011] In one embodiment, the novelty item may be illuminated or
otherwise include one or more lights. In a preferred embodiment,
one or more lights are associated with a support. The support may
be ring-shaped. Preferably, the lights are configured to illuminate
one or more of the segments of the novelty item. For example, a
light ring may be located beneath each segment.
[0012] In one embodiment, the base may also include one or more
lights. In one embodiment, a logo may be associated with the base.
One or more lights may be associated with that logo, either to
enhance the appearance thereof, to illuminate the logo, or
both.
[0013] While the novelty item preferably resembles gaming
paraphernalia, in one embodiment, the novelty item is configured as
a container. The display and/or base may define an interior space
usable as a container. In one embodiment, the novelty item may be
configured as a writing implement holder. In such embodiment, the
novelty item is preferably generally tall in relation to its width,
whereby writing implements placed therein are stored in a generally
upright position. In another embodiment, the novelty item may be
configured for use as a liquid container. In such embodiment, the
novelty item is preferably liquid-tight. The novelty item may be
relatively short and wide, such as for use as a mug.
[0014] Further objects, features, and advantages of the present
invention over the prior art will become apparent from the detailed
description of the drawings which follows, when considered with the
attached figures.
DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0015] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a first novelty item in
accordance with the present invention, as used as a writing utensil
holder;
[0016] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a second novelty item in
accordance with the present invention, the item having particular
utility as a liquid container;
[0017] FIG. 3A is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of
the novelty item illustrated in FIG. 1;
[0018] FIG. 3B is a perspective view of the novelty item
illustrated in FIG. 1;
[0019] FIG. 4 is an exploded view of the novelty item illustrated
in FIG. 1;
[0020] FIG. 5 is a top view of the novelty item illustrated in FIG.
1;
[0021] FIG. 6 illustrates a portion of the novelty item illustrated
in FIG. 1 fitted with an insert;
[0022] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of another novelty item in
accordance with the present invention;
[0023] FIG. 8 is an exploded view of the novelty item illustrated
in FIG. 7; and
[0024] FIG. 9 is bottom view of the novelty item illustrated in
FIG. 7.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0025] The invention is a novelty item. In the following
description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to
provide a more thorough description of the present invention. It
will be apparent, however, to one skilled in the art, that the
present invention may be practiced without these specific details.
In other instances, well-known features have not been described in
detail so as not to obscure the invention.
[0026] In general, the invention is a novelty item. The novelty
item preferably has the appearance of a gaming machine "top",
"candle" or "tower light." Most preferably, the novelty item is
also configured to have utilitarian function, such as for use as a
pencil holder, mug or the like.
[0027] FIG. 1 illustrates one embodiment of a novelty item 20 in
accordance with the present invention. As illustrated, the novelty
item 20 comprises a base 22 and a display 24, column or ornamental
section extending upwardly therefrom. In a preferred embodiment,
the display 24 is constructed of a plurality of segments 26.
Preferably, pairs of segments 26 are separated by a divider 28.
[0028] In the preferred embodiment, the display 24 is configured to
both display information and to contain or house material. The
display 24 may be configured as a container having a generally open
interior. As illustrated, a top of the display 24 is preferably
open, thus providing access to the interior thereof.
[0029] The configuration of the display 24 may vary depending on
the material to be contained partially or wholly thereby. For
example, as illustrated in FIG. 1 the novelty item 20 is configured
as a writing utensil holder (i.e. pen or pencil holder). In such an
embodiment, the display 24 may be relatively tall as compared to
its width dimension, whereby writing utensils are supported in a
generally upright position. On the other hand, as illustrated in
FIG. 2, a novelty item 120 is configured as a liquid container,
such as a cup or mug. Preferably, in that configuration, the
display 124 may be relatively wide compared to its height (and a
base 122 thereof may be suitably enlarged for supporting the
display 124).
[0030] Referring to FIGS. 3A and 3B, the configuration of the
display 24 maybe varied depending upon the number of segments 26
comprising the display. FIG. 3B illustrates an embodiment where the
display 24 comprises only two segments 26 separated from one
another by a single divider 28. FIG. 3A illustrates an embodiment
where the display comprises three segments 26 separated by a two
dividers 28. It will be appreciated that the display 24 could
include as few as one, or four or more such segments.
[0031] Additional details of one embodiment novelty item will now
be described with reference to FIGS. 4-6. FIG. 4 illustrates one
configuration for the novelty item 20 illustrated in FIG. 1.
[0032] As illustrated, the base 22 is somewhat cylindrical in
shape. The base 22 could have a variety of shapes and sizes,
however. The base 22 has a bottom 30 which is configured to rest
upon a supporting surface. The base 22 has an opposing top 32 for
supporting the display 24. The base 22 has an outer wall 34. The
base 22 may be constructed of a variety of materials. In one
embodiment, the base 22 is molded from plastic or a similar
material. The base 22 could be constructed of metal or other
materials, however. In one embodiment, the base 22 may be
configured to have a desirable outward appearance, such as being
chrome plated or the like.
[0033] The display 24 of the novelty item 20 illustrated includes
two segments 26 and a single divider 28. In one embodiment, the
segments 26 are cylindrical in shape. Each segment 26 defines a
first interior space 36, and has a top 38 and a bottom 40.
[0034] In a preferred embodiment, as illustrated in both FIGS. 4
and 6, each segment 26 includes an inner wall 42 and an outer wall
44. The inner and outer walls 42,44 preferably extend generally
parallel to one another, but are spaced from one another, such that
a second interior space or area 46 is defined there between. Where
the walls 42,44 are cylindrical, this space 46 is generally
annular/cylindrical in shape.
[0035] In one embodiment, at least the outer wall 44 of the segment
26 is generally clear or transparent, so that a viewer of the
novelty item 20 may see there through. In one embodiment, the inner
wall 42 of the segment 26 may be colored, such as red, white or
blue. In a preferred embodiment, the inner walls 42 of the segments
26 are different colors (such as red for the lower segment and
white for the supper segment, where there are two segments, or red
for the top segment, white for the middle segment and blue for the
lower segment, when there are three segments). In this manner, the
segments 26 of the display 24 have differing appearances.
[0036] In a preferred embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 6, an
insert 48 may be located in the space 46 between the inner and
outer walls 42,44 of one or more of the segments 26. The insert 48
may comprise, for example, a printed piece of paper folded or
wrapped into cylindrical form. The insert 48 could comprise a wide
variety of media bearing text, images or other materials, and may
be of a variety of shapes, sizes and colors. The insert 48 is
preferably located within the space 46 and, when the outer wall 44
is generally transparent, is viewable through the outer wall
44.
[0037] Different inserts 48 maybe located in the spaces 46 of the
different segments 26. The inserts 48 may thus be used to
"customize" the novelty item 20 by displaying various text or
images.
[0038] In an alternate, but less desirable configuration, one or
both of the walls 42,44 may be directly printed or otherwise
configured to bear text, images or the like. Also, in the event
both walls 42,44 are generally transparent, an insert could be
located within the central interior space of the display 24. A
particular advantage of locating the insert 48 inside one or more
of the segments 26 is that the insert 48 is protected from damage
and is easily replaceable or changeable (once the wall 42,44 is
directly printed, that printing may be hard to change).
[0039] Referring to FIG. 4 again, the divider 28 is preferably
positioned between the two segments 26. Preferably, where the
segments 26 are generally cylindrical in shape, the divider 28 is
ring or cylinder-shaped, though the divider 28 may have a variety
of shapes and sizes. In one embodiment, the divider 28 comprises an
outer wall 50 and an inwardly extending stop or support 52.
Preferably, the stop 52 extend inwardly between a top and bottom of
the outer wall 50, and generally perpendicular thereto.
[0040] In use, a bottom portion of the outer wall 50 preferably
extends over the top 38 of the segment 26 there below. The stop 52
rests upon the top 38 of that segment 26. The bottom of the segment
26 there above rests on the stop of the stop 52 and is supported
thereby, with a top portion of the outer wall 50 extending upwardly
along the segment. In this manner, the divider 28 covers the
intersection of the two segments 26 and supports the segments 26 in
a vertically stacked arrangement.
[0041] So configured, it will be appreciated that various segments
26 may be connected to one another with dividers 28, thereby
increasing the height of the novelty item 20 (as illustrated when
comparing the configuration in FIG. 3B to that illustrated in FIG.
3A).
[0042] In one embodiment, the segments 26 and divider 28 may be
configured to press or interference fit with one another, thus
providing secure connection there between. Alternately, the
segments 26 may be connected to the divider 28 with adhesive,
connectors, other types of mechanical locks (such as interlocking
tabs and slots).
[0043] The dividers 28 may be constructed from a variety of
materials. In one embodiment, the divider 28 is constructed of
plastic. The divider 28 maybe ornamented, such as with chrome, so
that it also serves as a visible divider between the segments
26.
[0044] In one embodiment, a cap 54 is located a top 56 of the
novelty item 20. In one embodiment, the cap 54 is similar in
configuration to the divider 28. The cap 54 could have other
configurations. Preferably, the cap 54 is positioned over the top
38 of the top-most segment 26 forming the display 24. The cap 54
preferably aids in closing the interior space 46 of that top-most
segment 26. As with the divider 28, the cap 54 may be configured to
securely engage the top-most segment 26, so as to prevent
inadvertent removal thereof.
[0045] As described above, in this embodiment, the novelty item 20
defines an interior space for containing all or part of one or more
items. Referring to FIGS. 4 and 5, the top 56 of the novelty item
20 is preferably open and leads to an interior space 58 which is
defined by the cap 54, segments 26 and dividers 28. In one
embodiment, a portion of the interior space 58 might also be
defined by the base 22.
[0046] As indicated, the display 24 portion of the novelty item 20
extends from, and is supported by, the base 22. In one embodiment,
a slot or groove 33 is located in the top 32 of the base 22. The
bottom 40 of the lowermost segment 26 is configured to engage this
groove 33. That segment 26 may engage the base 22 via a mechanical
connection (friction fit, threading arrangement, engaging tabs,
etc.), by adhesive or other means, so as to generally retain the
display 24 to the base 22.
[0047] As described, the novelty item 20 is preferably shaped and
ornamented so that it has the appearance of a gaming machine tower
light. In such instance, the appearance of the base 22, divider 28
and cap 54, along with the configuration/appearance of the segments
26 may be carefully chosen so that they emulate a tower light (such
as by the base 22, divider 28 and cap 54 having a chrome or other
metallic appearance, and by the segments 26 being colored).
[0048] As described with reference to FIG. 2, the novelty item may
be configured to contain liquid. In such instance, the novelty item
may still have the appearance of a tower light, but serve the
function of a mug, cup or other container. In such instance, the
interior space of the novelty item is preferably sealed to contain
the liquid. For example, seals or sealant may be used at the
inter-connection of the various components to seal them. In that
embodiment, the novelty item could include additional features,
such as a lid (for selectively opening and closing a top of the
item), and handle or the like.
[0049] Another embodiment novelty item 220 will now be described
with reference to FIGS. 7-9. In the description and figures of this
embodiment, like reference numbers will be used to designate like
components to those of the novelty item 20 illustrated in FIGS.
1-6, described above.
[0050] This embodiment novelty item 220 again includes a base 222
and upwardly extending or standing display 224. The display 224
again preferably comprises one or more segments 226 with pairs of
segments 26 separated by a divider 228. A cap 254 is located at a
top 256 of the novelty item 220.
[0051] In this embodiment, the novelty item 220 preferably includes
illumination means. In one embodiment, the novelty item 220
includes one or more lights.
[0052] In a preferred configuration, one or more lights 260 are
arranged to illuminate at least one of the sections 226. As
illustrated, a plurality of lights 260 may be associated with a
support 262, thus forming a light ring or disc 264. In one
embodiment, a light ring 264 is located at least one, and
preferably each, segment 226.
[0053] The support 262 is preferably ring shaped when the segment
226 is cylinder shaped, such that the support 262 is shaped similar
to the wall of the segment. In one embodiment, a plurality of
lights 260 are associated with the support 262, such as by being
spaced about or along the support. The lights 260 may be of a
variety of types and configurations. In one embodiment, the lights
260 are LED type lights (but may be incandescent or other
types).
[0054] The light ring 264 is preferably placed above or below a
segment 226 and arranged to direct light towards the segment. As
illustrated, the light rings 264 are shown located below each
segment 226. In a preferred embodiment, the light ring 264 is
positioned so that light is directed upwardly into the interior
space 246 of the segment 226, thus illuminating the segment and any
insert (not shown) which is located therein. Thus, in one
embodiment, the lights 260 are positioned on the support 262 so as
to be aligned with the interior space 246 of the corresponding
segment 226.
[0055] Wiring 266 is preferably utilized to direct power to the
light ring 264. The wiring 266 is preferably routed through an
interior of the novelty item 220 so as to be hidden from view.
[0056] The lights 260 are preferably powered by a power source. In
one embodiment, as seen in the bottom view of the item 220 as
illustrated in FIG. 9, the novelty item 220 includes a
self-contained power source. As illustrated, the base 222 may house
one or more batteries 268. The one or more batteries 268 may be
located in a compartment 270 located in the base 222, such as
accessible from a bottom of the base 222 via a panel or door 272.
Preferably, power is selectively provided via the one or more
batteries 268 to the one or more lights 260 via the wiring 266.
[0057] In one embodiment, the novelty item 220 may include a switch
274 for selectively controlling the power to the lights 260, thus
turning the lights on an off. As illustrated, such a switch 274 may
be supported by the base 222. The switch 274 may be of a variety of
types, such as the sliding-type switch illustrated, or other types
such as push-buttons and the like.
[0058] In this embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 7, the novelty
item 220 is configured to emit light. As described above, this
light may also illuminate the novelty item 220, including the
segments 226 and any inserts, text, graphics or the like.
[0059] In one embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 7, a logo 276,
such as text, designs or the like, may also be associated with the
base 222. On one embodiment, the logo 276 may be formed as part of
the base 222 (such as molded therewith, whether inset or
protruding) or attached or connected thereto.
[0060] In one embodiment, one or more lights 278 may be associated
with the logo 276, such as for illuminating the logo 276 or
enhancing the logo. The logo 276 could be backlit. Alternatively,
as illustrated, the light(s) 278 maybe used to enhance or set off
the logo. In the embodiment illustrated, a plurality of lights 278
are inset into the logo 276. The lights 278 may again be of a
variety of types, such as incandescent or LED. The lights 276 may
be powered by the same or a different power source than the lights
260 associated with the display 224.
[0061] Again, the novelty item 220 preferably defines an interior
for containing material. As illustrated, for example, the novelty
item 220 may be used as a writing utensil holder. If properly
sealed, the novelty item 220 may also be used to contain
liquid.
[0062] Various aspects of the novelty item will now be appreciated.
First, in a preferred embodiment, the novelty item generally
resembles or has the appearance of a gaming machine top or tower
light. In this regard, the novelty item is useful as a "gaming"
souvenir, such as for tourists to gaming locations such as Las
Vegas. In one embodiment, the novelty item is even illuminated,
both making the item more visually appealing and interesting, but
more closely mimicking an actual gaming machine top light.
[0063] In a preferred embodiment, the novelty item is also
configured as a container and thus is useful for a variety of
purposes/tasks other than as a souvenir. As indicated, the novelty
item may be configured for use in containing liquid, such as a mug
or cup, or as a writing utensil holder. The novelty item could be
configured for a variety of purposes, however.
[0064] Various alternate embodiments of the novelty item other than
those described specifically above are contemplated within the
scope of the invention. For example, the top of the base of the
novelty item may be inset both to accept the lower portion of the
display and whereby a portion of the interior of the novelty item
is defined by the base. In this embodiment, however, the bottom of
the lower-most segment may be positioned within the open interior
of the base, and the segment may extend upwardly from and outwardly
of the base. In the case where the novelty item may be configured
for use as a mug, this design increases the total capacity or
container volume of the item.
[0065] As described, the segments, dividers and the like comprise
individual elements. It is possible that one or more of the
elements may be formed in unitary fashion. It is still desirable,
however, for the display to have the appearance of segments divided
from one another by dividers.
[0066] As indicated, the particular dimensions of the novelty item
may vary. Where the novelty item is configured for desk-top
placement and use, the novelty item may be about 1-6 inches wide
and 4-10 inches tall, though the item may be larger or smaller, as
desired. As also indicated, the particular shape of the item may
vary. For example, the segments and dividers could be somewhat oval
in cross-sectional shape, rather than circular. As illustrated, the
segments are approximately the same size, including height. The
segments could be of differing sizes, however. For example, the
lower segment(s) might be taller than the upper segment(s).
[0067] In one embodiment, instead of the segments of the display
portion of the novelty sign being of a two-walled construction, the
segments could have a single wall construction. For example, the
segments could be constructed of a clear plastic wall. An insert
may then be located at the interior of the wall, such as by
adhering it to the wall or by the insert being ring shaped and
pressed into the interior of the segment. The insert might be
colored and/or bear text, images or the like. In other
configurations, the segments could be molded to include text,
images or the like (such as by infusion of dye during molding) or
text, images or the like could be associated with the segment(s) by
other means, such as by printing (such as silk-screen
printing).
[0068] It will be understood that the above described arrangements
of apparatus and the method there from are merely illustrative of
applications of the principles of this invention and many other
embodiments and modifications may be made without departing from
the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the claims.
* * * * *